Operation

The heave-compensation system*, which maintains the end of the walkway at a constant height, is automatically enabled into “approach” mode when the walkway is slewed outboard from its cradle. The walkway is then extended and slewed against the vertical pole on the installation. A constant force system ensures that pressure is exerted against the pole before the walkway is retracted to engage the latching mechanism. Once secured, the walkway is then lowered onto the horizontal platform and the heave-compensation system is disengaged. This allows the walkway to “float” between the vessel and the installation. At this point, the walkway is robustly connected to the fixed structure and automatically compensates for the six movement planes of the vessel motion, thereby allowing the safe transfer of personnel to commence.